Book Description

The U.S. is developing its strategy for operations in Afghanistan, as well as for the drawdown and continued operations of forces in Iraq. As of Dec. 2008, 32,500 U.S. troops were deployed in Afghanistan; an additional 30,000 more troops may be added. Since 2001, the war in Afghanistan changed from a violent struggle against al Qaeda and its Taliban supporters to a counterinsurgency effort. This testimony addresses: (1) observations regarding the dev¿t. of U.S. strategy in Iraq and Afghanistan; (2) factors that should be considered as the U.S. refines its strategy for Iraq and plans to draw down forces; and (3) factors that should be considered as the U.S. develops a strategy for Afghanistan and plans for increasing forces.